Evidence leaders at the Nkabinde Inquiry are seeking a postponement until Thursday due to the absence of key witnesses. This comes after the testimony of former KwaZulu-Natal Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Moipone Noko concluded on Friday. The inquiry is probing the fitness for office of South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Andrew Chauke.
The Nkabinde Inquiry, tasked with assessing whether Advocate Andrew Chauke remains fit to serve as South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions, faced procedural hurdles on Monday. Justice Nkabinde postponed proceedings to February 9, 2026, at 9am, allowing the evidence-leading team to file their postponement application by Saturday, February 7.
“Take the following order: This matter is postponed to Monday, the 9th of February 2026 at 9am. The evidence-leading team will file an application for the postponement, as they indicated, by Saturday, the 7th of February 2026. This application will be argued on Monday, the 9th at 9am,” said Nkabinde.
The request for delay stems from the unavailability of additional witnesses, following the wrap-up of Advocate Moipone Noko's testimony last Friday. Noko, formerly the KwaZulu-Natal Director of Public Prosecutions, provided key insights during her appearance.
In a related development, the inquiry's first witness, former National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Shamila Batohi, received approval to appoint legal counsel. This permission came after she walked out midway through cross-examination in December 2025. Justice Nkabinde directed both legal teams to submit applications and responding affidavits over the weekend, ensuring a structured approach to these matters.
The inquiry continues to navigate these challenges as it delves into allegations against Chauke, maintaining a focus on procedural fairness amid ongoing legal proceedings.
